Trading Features Enhanced in Pokémon TCG Pocket Backlash

Pokemon TCG Pocket's Trading Feature Faces Backlash, Prompts Developer Response

DeNA, the developer of Pokemon TCG Pocket, has pledged improvements to the game's recently implemented trading feature following significant player criticism. The controversy centers around the perceived high cost and restrictive nature of the trading system.

High Cost of Trade Tokens Fuels Player Frustration

Introduced on January 29, 2025, the trading feature allows exchanges of 1-4 Diamond and 1-Star rarity cards from Genetic Apex and Mythical Island booster packs. While intended to aid Pokedex completion, limitations – specifically the restricted card selection, the introduction of a new in-game currency (trade tokens), and the exorbitant cost of trading – have sparked widespread discontent.

DeNA acknowledged the negative feedback on February 1, 2025, via a Twitter (X) post, stating they are actively exploring solutions. One planned change involves providing alternative methods to acquire trade tokens, including event-based distributions. Currently, players can only trade 1-Star cards, and obtaining the necessary tokens requires sacrificing higher-rarity cards, creating an inefficient and potentially wasteful system. For example, trading a 4-Diamond card demands 500 tokens, while selling a 1-Star card yields only 100.

DeNA justified the stringent rules as a measure to counter bot activity and multi-account exploitation, aiming to preserve a fair and enjoyable card-collecting experience. Further details regarding upcoming changes remain undisclosed.

Genetic Apex Booster Pack Accessibility Concerns

The release of the Space-Time Smackdown booster packs on January 29, 2025, also generated player complaints. Some players reported the disappearance of the Genetic Apex packs from the main screen, leading to concerns about their accessibility.

However, the Genetic Apex packs remain accessible via a less prominent "Select other booster packs" option. While this oversight highlights potential UI/UX design flaws, some players speculated it was a deliberate marketing tactic to encourage purchases of newer packs. Players have suggested a homescreen update to display all available booster packs to prevent future confusion. DeNA has yet to address this issue directly.